Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia

The Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE) Professional Affairs Board in Australia (PABA) has recently adopted the International Ergonomics Association (IEA) HFE Core Competencies as its benchmark. Consequently, the PABA Certification Committee has undertaken a review of the CPE/CHFEP application process to reflect this.

PABA has an agreed new certification system which recognises the need for early career mentoring to support, promote and encourage professional development, as well as certification of those with more experience.

This new certification system has three entry points being:

• STUDENT – sHFEP – applicant undergoing tertiary training; access to a mentor who is an experienced CHFEP.
• ASSOCIATE – aHFEP – post-graduation / early career development; access to mentoring (away from their employer) in chosen domain/s, to guide them through full application process in steps.
• CERTIFIED – CHFEP – full application; process support from “buddy” CHFEP.

While we are still refining the details for the Student and Associate entry application points, we have re-opened the certification process and welcome applications for the Certified level, CHFEP applications.

Over the next month while the website is being updated with application information and resources, CHFEP applicants are welcome to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) of their intent to commence their certification application here: https://hfesa.wavecrm.com.au/application/01JZVHECGD0ZEZMEYVFBB23TW6

All applications will cost $300.

Once an application is received, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to complete and submit their application, along with a link to a onedrive folder to submit their documents. They will also be assigned a current CHFEP (formerly CPE) ‘buddy’ to support them through the application process.

When their application is completed, applicants will then be required to notify the HFE PABA that their application is ready to be assessed via this link: https://hfesa.wavecrm.com.au/application/01KCJNQVPAY7GMJY5TZ9ZHA61C

Assessment of applications will commence from February 2026, in order of the notification of readiness for assessment.

It is anticipated that applications will take on average one month for assessment. Note: this may vary per applicant and outcome/recommendations.

If unsuccessful, applicants will be referred to a mentor. This is to support them through the process of providing evidence of adequate knowledge in areas or domains where they are currently not competent, prior to their application being resubmitted and reassessed.